Foot & Ankle Healthhttps://www.utahfootdoc.com/blog/
Improved foot & ankle health through education from Mountain West Foot & Ankle Institute in American Fork, Utah. en-us2019 Mountain West Foot & Ankle Institute, All Rights Reserved, Reproduced with Permissionhttps://www.utahfootdoc.com/blog/Sat, 10 Aug 2019 20:08:00 GMTFoot & Ankle Healthhttps://www.utahfootdoc.com/images/logoprint.gifhttps://www.utahfootdoc.com/blog/
Did you rock those high heels to all your holiday parties, and now your feet are sore and tired? Are you starting to notice physical changes as well, like redness, swelling or even shifts in the width of your foot or the placement of your toes?

If so, you aren't alone! As it turns out, cases of Morton's Neuroma have increased by over 115% in the last 10 years, according to a study released by researchers atBradford Teaching Hospitalsin the UK. Morton’s Neuroma is a condition that occurs when a specific nerve in your foot becomes irritated and compressed by the growth of fibrous tissue in the foot; the pain is usually experienced in the ball of your foot and/or at the base of your toes.

Named for the individual who discovered the problem, the neuroma is thought to be brought on by wearing tight-fitting or high-heeled shoes, since, over time, the footwear pushes the foot bone.

In this study of how totreat the pain of neuromas, researchers discovered the sharp rise in women ages 40-69 seeking treatment in the UK: Over 2500 in 2014-15, compared to just over 1100 in 2004-5. Current treatment options range from using insoles to decompressing or even removing the nerve with surgery(this option leaves you with permanent numbness between your toes.)

I really hope these findings will be a wake-up call for my readers. Too many women are risking terrible pain, surgery and potential loss of feeling in your feet (which is really dangerous, since it can mask other foot problems like peripheral neuropathy.)

It’s just not worth it, ladies. Keep those fabulous stilettos for special occasions, choose supportive shoes for the majority of your walks and excursions and, at the first sign of foot pain, come see Dr. Brandt Gibsonso we can treat the problem before invasive procedures become a necessity.

]]>https://www.utahfootdoc.com/blog/did-party-shoes-leave-your-feet-in-agony-youre-not-alone-.cfmwww.utahfootdoc.com-185268Fri, 28 Dec 2018 09:27:00 ESTWhen you get out of bed in the morning, does it hurt like heck as soon as you step down on your feet? Are you walking around all day feeling like there's broken glass beneath your feet? Are you starting to feel like you'll never walk comfortably again?

If all of this sounds familiar, don't worry: these are all painful (but common) symptoms of plantar fasciitis, a condition in which the ligament that extends from your heel to your toes becomes inflamed, and heel spurs, excess bone that forms on the bottom or back of your heel bone. They form due to pressure from the attached tendon or ligament, which is why they often go hand in hand with plantar fasciitis. The pain you're feeling is likely a result of the inflammation, and the feeling of glass may be the result of the heel spur, so once we treat the inflammation and the heel spur, you are likely to experience relief!

Fortunately, most heel pain treatments we offer are minimally invasive--and highly effective! The first treatment I recommend for plantar fasciitis involves changes in your footwear: I'll usually suggest adding an orthotic insert to your shoe to take some of the pressure off your stressed-out ligament.

Next, I'll recommend daily stretches that can help further relax your ligament. Some examples include towel stretches for the bottom of your foot, and flexed foot stretches from a seated position. Both options are effective because they loosen up both your plantar fascia and your calf muscles, and tight calves can contribute to heel pain.

In addition to stretching, you can try icing the area of your foot where you're experiencing pain. Oral anti-flammatories like Motrin may also help with the discomfort, if you're taking them cautiously under the supervision of your podiatrist. Typically, as your plantar fasciitis improves, your heel spurs will as well, although these may need to be treated separately (padding and injections may help if the orthotics and supportive foot wear haven't already done the job.) Laser therapy, which we offer in our office, may also offer you relief.

It's important to note that surgery is always the last option when it comes to resolving your heel pain. And even if it becomes necessary, I offer a minimally invasive procedure, which I call the Topaz Mini, that utilizes radio-frequency waves to stimulate new blood vessel formation and create mild tears in your plantar fascia that allow it to lengthen. The radio-waves also stimulate growth factors to promote faster healing.

Now that you know why your heels are hurting and how easily I can help you feel better, don't spend another day in pain! Schedule an appointment at our American Fork podiatry practice so you can find relief from heel pain.

]]>https://www.utahfootdoc.com/blog/help-it-feels-like-broken-glass-is-stuck-in-my-heel-.cfmwww.utahfootdoc.com-185238Tue, 18 Dec 2018 10:56:00 ESTBefore you had diabetes, a small nick—regardless of its location—was probably something you never even thought about. Now that you have this illness, however, even a tony scrape is a potentially dangerous health condition. Here’s why you need to be so cautious:

How Diabetes Affects Your Body’s Healing ProcessPatients with chronic diabetes tend to have high blood sugar levels. This build up of sugar in the blood can effect and delay your body’s ability to heal even the smallest of wounds. That’s why even a small scratch can be a big problem: if any type of dirt or germ makes its way into this tiny opening, your body’s natural defenses may fail to fight off infection. The result could be a problem that your body can’t fight off on its own.

Other symptoms of your diabetes can further complicate the problem. Diabetes can cause the arteries in your feet to constrict, thickening your blood and thus restricting blood flow to the area. So now you have a potentially infected cut, a constrained immune system and a short supply of fresh, healthy blood. This trifecta can cause even the smallest of scratches to develop into an ulcer—a wound that remains open and refuses to heal, potentially threatening your entire limb!

Because of the potential domino effect from a diabetic foot scratch, any break in your skin’s surface should receive immediate attention. As soon as you see a cut, apply some antibiotic ointment to the area and cover it with a sterile wound patch or gauze. Keep the area clean, and change dressing daily until you’ve healed. If the scratch doesn’t clear up within a few days, make an appointment with your podiatrist right away.

Catching Problems QuicklyWhile you need to take a scratch seriously when you have diabetes, it certainly isn’t a medical emergency—if you catch the problem on time. Unfortunately, diabetes can play one more game with your foot health: many diabetics experience reduced sensation in their feet. This lack of feeling can leave diabetics unaware that they’ve even sustained a foot injury. That’s why, in addition to quickly treating any cuts on your feet, you have to perform daily foot exams to make sure you catch any problems right away. With careful inspections and quick first-aid, diabetics can make sure that small scratches don’t turn into big problems for their feet!

]]>https://www.utahfootdoc.com/blog/when-you-have-diabetes-even-small-cuts-are-a-big-deal.cfmwww.utahfootdoc.com-185222Mon, 17 Dec 2018 10:30:00 ESTWe use our feet so often, but how many of us take care of them properly? Just like your teeth, you want to make sure to maintain regular upkeep of your feet, so as to avoid injury or protracted difficulties, which will be costly to treat down the road.

First things first, feet are not so well designed. They developed from appendages that were used to help our predecessors walk on all fours, and they had to make the leap (no pun intended) to help us walk upright. So there’s a lot of pressure on feet for which they haven't quite adapted! That’s why people develop calluses and bunions: no one walks in the exact tread you're meant to follow. That's why the skin literally compensates: if more pressure is put on a certain area when you walk, the skin builds itself up to take the pressure off your bones. Unfortunately, too much buildup causes discomfort. And, if the area isn’t kept clean, it’s likely to develop an infection or, worse, an ulcer.

So what do we do? Here’s a list of some easy ways to maintain healthy feet, without going overboard.

5 Keys to Protecting the Feet

1. Wear comfortable shoes

This is a big one. So many people wear shoes for style, ignoring the terrible impact that an unsupportive shoe will have on your foot. If your shoes hurt, that should be a sign that you’re not wearing something good for your foot. You shouldn’t come home at the end of the day with scratches at the back of your ankle, or with the balls of your feet killing you. Make sure to buy shoes that are not too tight, or too short, or too raised. Contorting your feet in these ways just compounds the original problem of feet not being so well designed.

2. Wash and dry your feet carefully

It’s not enough to simply lather on some quick soap and then let them air dry. When bathing, treat your feet as you would your hands after a messy meal. Really scrub the nooks and crannies, and then when you dry them, make sure to leave nothing wet. Not only will leaving water on your feet cause them to dry out and flake—which may lead to further tearing or infection—but it increases the likelihood of developing athlete’s foot, or contracting some other fungal infection. Dry very carefully between your toes! That’s where pockets of moisture hide out and cause the most damage. Also, if you use a public locker room or showers, always wear water-shoes or other waterproof footwear. Like a surgical mask for your mouth, covering your feet will keep them out of contact with the fungi and viruses that can cause infection.

3. Cut your toenails regularly

An important part of foot hygiene is making sure your toenails don’t get too long or bent out of shape. Not only will they take up too much room in your shoes, making the space cramped and leading to problems like calluses and corns, but if the toenail breaks, it may never properly heal. Be careful, too: toenails are susceptible to infection. If you see your toenail thickening, turning an odd color, or developing grooves, see our podiatrist right aways. These could be infections, or your body's way of signaling other health-related issues such as heart disease. Keeping an eye on your toes will help you avoid these complications. But be careful when you cut your nails! They are not meant to be cut to the red—some white should be left behind as a toe-guard, in case you bang your foot. Toenails, while seemingly precarious, are there for our feet’s protection, so don’t defeat their purpose by cutting them too short.

4. Massaging

Massing your own feet (if you can’t afford to have a professional do it!) is a great way to keep them healthy and happy. Not only can the time double as a foot exam during which you may discover patches of dry skin or injuries, but bringing the flow of blood to different parts of your foot relaxes the muscles and allows them to re-energize. It feels good for a reason! Our feet carry us around most of the time, and that is a lot of weight to carry. Give your foot muscles a break, and loosen up any tension in them at the same time. Besides, being mindful of your feet, and every part of them—your toes, your arch, your heel, the top—can help you feel centered and even reduce your anxiety.

5. Seek medical attention when necessary

While there’s so much you can do to keep your feet healthy, they are just as important to seek medical attention for as any other body part. If you are feeling pain or discomfort, see your podiatrist before the pain gets worse. Don’t allow a problem to fester; ignoring foot problems can, in the worst case scenario, lead to a foot amputation! So be serious about your feet.

The main thing is to remember—don’t ignore your feet! They are too important and too fragile to not treat them right. Sure, they can take a beating—runners will attest to that—but they need the care that comes after the hard work they do for us. So do it for yourself and, when necessary, get a helping hand from your friendly neighborhood podiatrist!

]]>https://www.utahfootdoc.com/blog/5-easy-ways-to-keep-your-feet-happy-.cfmwww.utahfootdoc.com-184694Mon, 26 Nov 2018 19:42:00 ESTFor all you lovers of high-heels out there, take note of a trend coming out of New York: yoga instructor Yamuna Zake has begun teaching practices that reportedly beat the foot pain associated with wearing stilettos.

Apparently this is the way it works: to take part in Zake’s ‘foot yoga’ classes, you bring in your most extreme pair of high heels and work with the group to develop a less damaging walk.

The classes last about an hour and during that time, students use special small balls, developed by Zake, that help massage your feet and teach you how to evenly distribute your weight when standing or walking in heels (this is great because it prevents you from putting too much pressure on any one area of the foot, which can lead to injury).

Right now, New York is the only place you can take one of Zake’s classes, although she plans to take her show on the road in the future. For those of you who are intrigued by the idea, however, you can try her home ‘foot fitness kit’ that costs $65 and includes ball tools and a DVD.

Other Yoga Options for High Heel Relief

Of course, you don’t have to pay for an expensive yoga video to help relieve some of the foot pain associated with wearing high heels! There are plenty of yoga poses that can help your feet feel better, and doing them won’t cost you a penny!

Here are eight yoga poses, adapted from Shape magazine, that can help you get rid of temporary foot pain:

Lift hips and place a block underneath you at whatever setting feels best for your back, then lower sacrum onto the block.

Once you feel steady, using your right hand for assistance, place the top of right foot on the ground next to the block. Keep reaching knees toward your midline.

Breathe here for 5 to 10 deep breaths and then switch sides.

Reclined Hero's Pose

Begin in a kneeling position. Separate feet so that sitz bones can come to the ground between heels.

Keeping knees relatively close together, not touching, but not widening, slowly crawl hands back until forearms are on the ground.

Walk your elbows down until you are lying down on the mat. Tuck tailbone underneath you to mitigate the arch in back.

Reach arms over head and grab opposite elbows. Breathe here for 5 to 10 deep breaths.

Reclined Cow Face Pose

Lie on back and cross right knee over left, winding feet out to the sides slightly.

Take hold of the right foot with left hand and left foot with the right hand.

Keeping knees stacked, direct feet with hands, moving in the direction of getting shins into one long line. Bend the elbows and flex feet.

Breathe here for 5 to 10 breaths, taking thumbs into arches and firmly massage from the heel to the ball. Repeat on the other side.

Heron Pose

Begin seated in with legs long in front of you.

Bend left knee and place top of left foot on ground just outside left side of butt.

Bend right knee and take a hold of outer edges of right foot with either hand.

Gently press heel away and up, lengthening the right leg. Draw shoulders down and together on back and lift chest, leaning back slightly.

Use your finger pads to massage the edges of your foot. Breathe here for 5 deep breaths. Repeat on the other side.

Legs Up the Wall

Sit sideways next to a wall and then lie down on one side, facing away from the wall with butt touching it.

Using arms, lift legs up the wall as you roll over onto back. Allow arms to fall on either side of you. (Palms can face up for openness or face down for an extra level of grounding.)

Stay here for at least 5 breaths or, if you feel good, as long as you like.

Of course, practicing yoga doesn’t give you free reign to wear high heels all the time. But, as Zake says, it’s OK to slip on a pair every so often, "just as long as you are smart and have a healthy foot practice regimen."

As most of you know, no matter how often you practice foot yoga, wearing high heels too often can aggravate bunions or lead to painful conditions like neuromas. Foot yoga may help your feet feel more comfortable when you walk in heels, but you’d still be wise to avoid wearing towering shoes most days. If you don’t, I’ll likely be seeing you at Mountain West Foot and Ankle for your foot pain more frequently than you’d expect.

]]>https://www.utahfootdoc.com/blog/you-have-to-try-our-yoga-for-high-heel-lovers.cfmwww.utahfootdoc.com-184619Tue, 20 Nov 2018 12:21:00 ESTManaging your diabetes can seem like your second full-time job when it comes to all the work you have to do. You need to keeping track of your glucose levels. Carefully monitor how many carbs you ingest. Watch your meal sizes and your activity level. You also have to make regular visits to a whole host of specialists, including (but not limited to) your podiatrist, endocrinologist, dentist and general doctor.

Thankfully, so many innovators and researchers are working hard, every day, to develop exciting new technology designed to help you stay in good control of your diabetes. Here are just a few new developments we’ve been watching at Mountain West Foot and Ankle:

Ulcer Treating InsolesAccording to a new paper in Materials Research Society Communications, a powerful new insole is in prototype stages at Indiana's Purdue University. The design is for a two-layered insole constructed from a type of silicone known as polydimethylsiloxane. But the second layer is extra special: it’s actually a chamber that contains oxygen gas. The top layer is designed to be especially permeable to oxygen, thanks to some laser-ablation, so that the restorative gas can be targeted to reach the exact spot where your ulcer is located.

The concept is simple but brilliant: as you walk throughout the day, you put pressure on the insole, forcing oxygen out of its bottom layer, through its top layer and onto the oxygen-starved skin of your ulcer. As the oxygen reaches the ulcer, it helps speed up your healing, meaning your recovery process is getting a boost all day long. Even when you sit, your foot puts a small amount of pressure on the insole, meaning at least some oxygen will be pushed out through the two layers.

Currently, the insole is created with special lasers, but the researcher’s ultimate goal is to bundle print the insoles using a 3D printer, thereby reducing costs and increasing availability. While the product is still in development, clinical trials with diabetic patients should be underway in the near future.

Foot Ulcer Magic in a Mat

Jackson State University engineering students have developed a product designed to help prevent the development of dangerous foot ulcers on diabetics’ feet.

When researching ways to prevent the foot amputations that are an all-too-common diabetic complication, the JSU students discovered that colder feet were predictive of the kind of nerve damage that causes diabetics to lose sensation in their feet. Once diabetics lose foot sensation, wounds may not be easily discovered, making ulcers a more likely complication.

Realizing the chain of effects that could be started by a simple drop in foot temperature, the students designed their mat to connect to an App that tracks daily foot temperatures. If used every day, as intended, the mat could function as an early warning system for circulatory issues and nerve damage, inspiring diabetics to be more aware of potential hazards during their daily foot exams.

Extra Special Socks

If you’re sensing a theme in the tech available for diabetics, you’re not wrong: all of these products are designed to monitor changes in your feet, and these socks are no exception to that rule. The SenseGO ‘smart socks’ are the brainchild of students from the Hebrew University in Jerusalem. They are designed to detect areas of pressure on your feet and then relay that information to a smart phone app. People with diabetes must be aware of weight imbalances affecting their feet, as extra pressure can result in wounds, and we all know that wounds can develop into limb-threatening ulcers without proper treatment.

The machine-washable socks incorporate dozens of micro-fabricated pressure sensors, carefully placed to detect potential problem areas. If issues arise, the sensors send an alert to the patient’s phone. While pressure-sensing insoles are already available on the market, this product is the first designed to detect pressure changes on any area of the foot, not just on your sole.

Assistive technology is a fantastic resource for diabetics, but it should always be seen as an addition to your care routine, not a replacement for what you’re already doing. While it may be tempting to trust your socks to note potentially dangerous changes in your feet, no pre-programmed device will perform as vigilant an exam as you and your doctor. Just remember, look for help when you need it, but always stay true to the basics of diabetic foot care: daily self-exams and bi-annual (or more) checkups with your podiatrist!

]]>https://www.utahfootdoc.com/blog/new-assistive-technology-for-people-with-diabetes.cfmwww.utahfootdoc.com-184597Mon, 19 Nov 2018 14:43:00 ESTDo you have a job that forces you to stand all day? Do you work in retail, spending long hours on your feet as you arrange products on shelves and greet each arriving customer? Ideally, when your work takes a heavy toll on your feet, you would be able to select supportive foot wear like a pair of sneakers. Sometime, however, this isn’t possible. You may have an office dress code, or you may want to wear shoes that work a little better with your office attire. Unfortunately, for people who spend extended periods of time standing, wearing the wrong shoes can hurt your knees and back; it can leave your feet with blisters and scrapes. It can even leave you vulnerable to ankle injuries. Given all the potential problems, it’s crucial to be smart about choosing the shoes you’ll stand in all day.

How to Choose the Right Standing Shoes

When your shoes will be working overtime all day, it’s important to examine more than just style when selecting a pair. Here’s a quick guide to selecting shoes that will support all-day standing:

Proper Fit

It is crucial that a shoe be both long enough and wide enough for your feet if you’ll be standing in them for hours on end. Given the amount of support you’ll need from your shoes, it’s a good idea to have your feet professionally sized and measured, either at your podiatrist’s office or in the shoe store itself.

Forget Online Purchases—Put Them On Instead

You should never buy shoes without first slipping them on to check for fit (see our previous point.) Even if you know your proper shoe size, different brands (and even different styles within brands) fit differently. If the specific pair you’re checking out doesn’t feel comfortable the first time you wear it, look for a different pair instead.

Key Features to Look For

People who will be standing all day should buy shoes with good arch support and a thick, cushioned midsole. Running shoes and work boots are the ideal options, but if those styles don’t work for you, look for models with similarly supportive features.

How can I make the shoes I own more comfortable when I’m standing?

Even if you’ve followed all our shoe-purchasing guidelines, standing for a long time may still cause you to experience some foot pain. Here are some hacks you can try to make your shoes and feet feel better after a long day of standing:

Go for orthotics: With a custom pair of orthotics, you can provide your feet with an extra layer of comfort and support for a long, taxing day.

Bring a spare pair: Sometimes, even the best pair of shoes can hurt if you wear them for too long. If you have an extra pair at work, you can give your feet a break (and relieve some pressure on your feet) by slipping on a different, yet equally supportive, pair of shoes.

Watch the heel: Flat shoes may seem like a smart choice, but may actually leave you vulnerable to much of the impact of the floor. Instead, choose a low, chunky heel that can absorb some of the shock of standing without throwing off your balance or placing too much pressure on your forefoot.

Control your surfaces: Are you standing in one spot all day? Try stashing a scrap of carpet or other soft flooring in your bag. Standing on a piece of floor with some give and padding will take far less toll on your feet than a harder surface like linoleum, wood or concrete.

While your shoes can help manage the pain of standing, you’ll have to be proactive in other ways as well. Try to walk around whenever you have the chance—this will help prevent blood from pooling in your feet, leaving them heavy and sore.

If you have the chance to sit, do so—and take time during that break to elevate your feet. Doing so will help alleviate the swelling that can set in after hours on your feet. And, if you’re feeling really indulgent, go for a foot massage (either on your own or from a professional) after the day is done to help work out the knots and pain.

Over time, extended periods of standing will take a larger toll on your overall foot health. If you know that your career will negatively impact your foot health, it’s key to develop a good relationship with your podiatrist early on. With regular checkups, we can monitor your feet for problematic changes, and begin interventions at the first signs of pain.

]]>https://www.utahfootdoc.com/blog/need-to-stand-all-day-check-your-shoes-first.cfmwww.utahfootdoc.com-184378Mon, 05 Nov 2018 13:39:00 ESTLet’s face it—there’s nothing worse than kicking your shoes off at the end of a long day and noticing an awful odor. Whether it’s coming from your socks, your shoes or your feet themselves, you want it to stop—fast.

Before we can eliminate foot odor, we need to determine its root cause. Let’s look at some of the common culprits when it comes to smelly feet.

Foot Infections

Did you know that, back in the day, a lot of bacterial infections were diagnosed by the way they smelled? Apparently many bacteria have their own distinct smell—from the odor of feces to an aroma akin to that of grapes—that could allow for a quick diagnosis.

Building off of that idea, scientists have developed a device called an electronic nose; using sensors that mimic receptors in our nose, the e-nose can help sniff out bacteria so that treatment can begin well before lab cultures are even processed—one of the most frequent uses of an e-nose is to diagnose tuberculosis.

Seeing how effective this tool can be, scientists are working on a new type of e-nose that can be used to help diagnose diabetic foot infections. Why is this the next frontier for electronic sniffers?

Diabetic foot infections are notoriously hard to treat (which is one of the reasons I always emphasize the importance of preventative foot care); if left untreated, they can develop into ulcers that ultimately may result in a foot or leg amputation.

By developing an electronic nose that targets foot infections, researchers are hoping to improve the lead time on bacterial diagnosis, meaning treatment can be administered faster and more effectively.

Sweaty Feet

When you've got sweaty feet, the combination of moisture and warmth produces the perfect environment for those smelly bacteria we just talked about. Once again, the bacteria is responsible for odor—they create it by breaking down your sweat and your dead skin cells.

Since you don’t need a professional nose sniffer to deal with this issue, what can you do to beat sweat-related stink? The key to resolving this issue is regular sock changes, regardless of the weather. And if fresh, clean socks don’t squash your stink woes, you can always try putting antiperspirant on your feet. You don’t even need a different type—you can use the same stick you put on your armpits (although you may want to devote one stick for each part, simply for hygiene purposes. But we don’t judge, so you do you.)

You’ve Got a Fungus

Athlete’s Foot is a very common cause of foot odor—and it’s also a common problem for those of you who frequently go barefoot, especially in gym locker rooms or at the pool.

In order to help prevent this kind of foot infection, do your best to keep feet in flip flops or shower shoes when walking around in public. Keeping feet dry will help stave off this type of infection—remember to towel off between your toes, as well, as this is a very common spot for Athlete’s Foot to develop.

And, if you do believe Athlete’s Foot is at the root of your foot odor, please do not attempt to treat your infection at home. Over-the-counter creams may alleviate your symptoms temporarily, but will often not cure the problem completely, leaving you vulnerable to frequently-returning symptoms.

Whatever you believe is causing your feet to smell funky, it’s crucial to check in with your foot doctor if the problem persists for any extended period of time. Whether the smell is a preliminary warning sign of diabetic foot infections or just a heads-up to deal with your sweat situation, a trained podiatrist like Dr. Gibson can help determine the proper diagnosis. In this way, you can be sure that you’re applying the correct fix to your feet, leaving you safe from smells (and more serious complications!)

Crossed toes develop over time, and have many possible causes. Sometimes, genetics are a factor—if your parents had crossed toes, you’re more likely to develop them as well.

Sometimes, the condition is more about your foot gear—high heels, for example, put too much pressure on the ball of your foot; this can injure the parts of your toe that’s responsible for keeping it in place. This is especially true when it comes to your plantar plate—if injured, toe instability sets in, and makes crossing highly likely.

In some cases, bunions are the reason your toes start to cross. When a bony bump forms on at the base of your big toe, causing that toe to deform, other toes may be affected as well. In certain cases, bunion patients may also see crossing in their other toes.

And finally, a condition known as pre-dislocation syndrome may the reason that your toes are starting to cross. If you have pre-dislocation syndrome, the stabilizing tissue in your toe or toes (usually the second one) becomes inflamed; if the condition progresses, that tissue could even rupture, leaving your toe permanently misshapen.

Symptoms of Crossed Toes

As we mentioned above, pain is almost always a symptom of crossed toes. Pain may spread across your entire toe, it may stay local at the toe’s tip, or you may even feel the discomfort in the ball of your foot.

Other symptoms may include:

Corns or calluses (the hardened areas of skin can form when crossed toes change the fit of your shoes, putting more pressure on the tops and/or balls of your feet)

Toes may become swollen, red and irritated

It will become difficult, if not impossible, to find shoes that fit comfortably—especially shoes with smaller toe-boxes, like stylish-but-terrible, pointy-toed stilettos.)

Visibly crossed toes are the final and obvious symptom, but once you notice this visible symptom, your condition has already progressed quite a bit, so it’s important to try and get in to our American Fork podiatry office before you see the toes start to cross!

What Can I Do About My Crossed Toes?

The good news is that crossed toes, whether caused by pre-dislocation syndrome or other conditions, are usually successfully treated without surgery, especially if we catch the condition early on. Some of the more conservative treatment options we can explore include taping your toes, padding your feet, changing your shoe-type, wearing custom orthotics, employing foot immobilization and prescribing a regiment of anti-inflammatory medications.

Certain exercises may also help prevent further toe drifting, and physical therapy may be helpful in preventing the condition from progressing.

If the pain continues through treatment, or your toe deformities continue to worsen, surgery may be necessary, but that would be a last resort.

Surgery for Crossed Toes

When operating on crossed toes, you may also need to correct contributing issues, like bunions, so the condition does not recur after your surgery.

When it comes to the toes themselves, we typically remove part of your toe bone in order to correct the joint shifts. In certain cases, we may be able to repair your bone through fusion; this decision will be based, for the most part, on the location of the damage.

We will also need to relocate the joint at the ball of your foot, so it no longer allows your toe to shift over. This is usually accomplished by releasing a series of ligaments so that the joint can once again be properly aligned. Once realigned, we’ll insert a wire or something similar to make sure the joint stays where it belongs after surgery is completed.

Recovery from this type of procedure takes anywhere from six weeks to as long as three months, depending on the procedures implemented and the individual patient, but many people are able to walk fairly soon after surgery, as long as they safely follow my post-operative care instructions.

Regardless of your recovery period, surgery is something that we can all agree we’d rather skip. The key to avoiding such invasive treatment is to see me as soon as you notice pain in your foot or toes. With pre-dislocation syndrome, as with almost all foot, toe or ankle problems, the sooner you see your podiatrist, the better your outcome is likely to be.

]]>https://www.utahfootdoc.com/blog/should-i-worry-about-my-crossed-toes-.cfmwww.utahfootdoc.com-184294Mon, 29 Oct 2018 12:14:00 ESTYou know that sharp pain that hits with every step when you’re running? It’s not normal! In fact, there’s a good chance that it may be caused by shin splints. Shin splints, among the most common injuries incurred by runners, are caused by the separation of muscle from the shin bone, which leads to inflammation and that pain you’ve been feeling when you take a running stride.

There are several different actions that may cause you to develop shin splints, and each one comes with its own solution.

Bad ShoesOne common cause of shin splints is exercising in shoes that are worn out and don’t provide proper arch support. Shoes, even ones that fit perfectly, aren’t meant to last forever. If you’ve logged more than 300 miles, it’s time to start shoe shopping. Sneakers should be replaced every 300 to 500 miles. If you wear them for longer than their appropriate lifetime, you’re putting yourself at risk of shin splints.

If bad footwear is at the root of your shin pain, you’ll need to switch your shoes up after you’ve recovered from your injury. And, even with the new shoes, you may want to invest in a set of custom orthotics to prevent a recurrence of your shin splint once you return to your regular training schedule.

Ramping Up Your TrainingAnother common way to develop shin splints is engaging in a sudden increase in the frequency or intensity of your workouts. In safe exercise routines, we include rest periods in between intense workouts. During these rest periods, scar tissue can form, helping support the healing of muscles that may have been damaged by the impact of the workout. If, however, you don’t allow yourself the appropriate healing time, that scar tissue either may not have the time to form or may be damaged. If this occurs, you will likely experience the separation of bone from muscle that characterizes shin splints.

Trouble With Other MusclesWeak ankle muscles and/or tight Achilles tendons are also often to blame when it comes to people dealing with shin splints. When the muscles and tendons of your lower legs aren’t up to fully performing their duties, the muscles in the front of your leg have to work overtime. If forced to do more than their fair share, these muscles can become inflamed; the situation will mimic overuse injuries that occur from over training. And, the result will be the same: shin splints!

Switching SurfacesChances are, as a runner, the risk factors we’ve discussed already aren’t new to you, but here’s one that might be. If you suddenly change running surfaces (treadmill to pavement, track to trail) that can put you at risk of shin splints as well; a harder or less even surface than what your body is already used to may put additional stress on the muscles that support your run, leading to injury.

Symptoms of Shin SplintsAside from pain when you walk or run, there are a several other signs that will let you know you’re dealing with shin splints. Symptoms include:

Pain that’s terrible at the start of a workout, but begins to lessen as you keep exercising, only to return again towards the end of training (note: pushing through is not recommended when your workout hurts. Continuing the same motion can make your injury even worse.)

Pain that’s located on the outer edge of your leg, right near your shin bone and below your knee.

Pain is felt in a broad area, usually in a stretch of leg that’s about four to six inches long.

Once you suspect that you have shin splints, it’s important to briefly stop running until you can see your podiatrist. While your instinct may be to stop running until your shins stop hurting, doing so could actually get you going on a vicious cycle of re-injury. Our goal at Mountain West Foot and Ankle is to keep you training whenever possible; with a shin splint injury, we can introduce stretches to your routine and reduce your activity level without completely stopping your workouts, allowing your body to stay strong while you heel. Athletes need doctors that understand their passion; for any athletic injury, come see Dr. Brandt Gibson. He’ll work hard to keep you on track with all your running goals.

]]>https://www.utahfootdoc.com/blog/why-did-i-get-shin-splints-.cfmwww.utahfootdoc.com-184205Mon, 22 Oct 2018 11:11:00 ESTRunners are not the only athletes who experience foot pain, but, because your feet take such a beating during a run, it’s not an uncommon problem. While all parts of the foot are fair game when it comes to feeling the pain, one common sore spot for runners is the top of their feet.

Unlike other parts of the foot, like your heels, it can be hard to figure out why the top of your foot is in agony. But, ruling out a full-fledged fracture, a trained podiatrist can usually figure out the cause of the problem.

If the pain shows up every time you take another stride, and if it took a while to show up but has gradually started to build, there are four likely conditions that may be responsible for your problem.

The bad news? Any one of these conditions will require a trip to the podiatrist. The good news? Once you’re there, your symptoms are treatable and, with proper care, you’ll be back to your training in no time.

Why Does the Top of Your Foot Hurt?

Suspect #1: Tendonitis.

Tendonitis is a painful condition in which your tendons becomes inflamed. While this problem often causes knee pain, it can also make the top of your feet hurt, depending on the location of the inflammation. If, for example, the tendons that run from the center of your leg to the center of your foot become inflamed, the pain is likely to show up in the top center section of your foot. You may also experience pain along your instep and near your big toe if this kind of inflammation is your problem.

Treatments: When your tendons becomes inflamed, we usually start with minimally invasive treatments including Rest, Ice, Compression, and Elevation (RICE). We’ll also take a look at your running shoes to make sure they offer adequate support, and we may suggest ankle supports, orthotics, medications or other interventions. The important thing to remember is that this type of injury is usually related to overuse, so it’s crucial to see your doctor before returning to your old training habits.

Suspect #2: Stress Fracture of the Metatarsal Bones.

In the center of your foot, there are small bones known as your metatarsals. Running too hard or too quickly can take a toll on these bones and, over time, lead to a stress fracture of the metatarsals (a stress fracture is a small break in your bone that’s caused by repetitive impacts rather than an acute injury.) Stress fractures present differently than other breaks—symptoms include swelling and localized pain rather than bruising. The pain is also less of a throbbing hurt and more of a dull ache.)

Treatments: Even though stress fractures present differently than acute breaks, they require immobilization in order to heal—in other words, expect to be wearing a boot or some other form of restraint. Once the fracture is healed, it’s important to go back and look at your running habits in order to figure out why you got hurt. A gait analysis, switch in foot wear or custom orthotics may all be useful in preventing a repeat injury in this instance.

Suspect #3: You’re Lacing the Wrong Way

Playfully known as “vamp disease,” this runner’s term just refers to an irritation on the top of your foot. Most often, this kind of irritation is caused by tying up your sneakers too tightly. If the pain is showing up in the same spot as the tongue of your shoe, this is likely the cause of your foot pain.

Treatment: This one is easy (and obvious.) Just loosen up on your laces or switch to a shoe that fits better so you don’t have to cinch up so tightly. Of course, if you have a hard time finding sneakers that fit well, you may want to explore custom inserts with your podiatrist. These can ensure a proper fit for your feet, every time you lace up and with every pair of shoes that you own.

Suspect #4: Neuromas

A neuroma is a fancy way of saying you have an inflamed or swollen nerve While we most often see Morton’s neuromas in our Utah podiatry practice, this kind of injury can occur anywhere you have nerves. If your top-of-the-foot pain can’t be explained by any of our other three main suspects, the problem may be an inflammation in the nerves that travel near your metatarsal bones. If this is your problem, the pain will feel sharp and shooting, and may seem to run into your toes.

Treatment: Much of the time, this kind of nerve inflammation can be made worse with pressure, so it’s important to look for a running shoe with plenty of room for your toes to wiggle. Once you’ve eliminated aggravating factors, ice the problem area and take anti-inflammatory medication (as instructed by your doctor) in order to calm and reduce the swelling. Of course, we can’t see nerves on our own, so you will likely need an MRI to diagnose this condition. If the pain doesn’t resolve with conservative treatments, surgery may ultimately be necessary to treat a neuroma.

Sometimes, figuring out why your foot hurts can feel like detective work—but here’s the good news! Like Sherlock Holmes and Watson, you and your podiatrist can work together to determine the root of (and resolve) your pain! By keeping track of your symptoms and coming in to the office at the first sign of a problem, treating foot pain becomes less of a mystery and more of the science we know it to be!

]]>https://www.utahfootdoc.com/blog/four-reasons-the-top-of-your-foot-hurts.cfmwww.utahfootdoc.com-184120Tue, 16 Oct 2018 14:59:00 ESTWorkouts used to look very different. May you would stroll on the treadmill for 30 minutes; sometimes you’d opt for the elliptical or stair master instead. If you were feeling really ambitious, you might try out abs class or even join a running group.

These days, HIIT (High Intensity Interval Training) workouts are all the rage. The theory is that, by alternating short bursts of extremely intense cardiovascular exercise with rest periods, the jumps in heart rate and the extreme exertion will jump-start your heart rate and metabolism, burning more calories than steady-state cardio. People also like HIIT workouts because you can spend less time in the gym with the same or greater calorie burning results.

Many HIIT workouts incorporate some sort of jumping—whether it’s squat jumps, broad jumps or plain old jumping rope—instructors love to get your feet off the ground for some serious sweat equity in your workout. Jumping, especially with a jump rope, is an incredible exercise. It builds up your endurance and agility, all while strengthening the supporting muscles of your feet and calves. It even builds up toe strength—something high heel fans are bound to love.

When Cardio Jumps Are a Real Pain Though jumping rope can be very beneficial, it can also hurt. A lot of people experience arch pain while doing this kind of exercise. There are a few different reasons why jumping rope may hurt your feet. Let’s take a look at some of the most likely causes:

1. Muscle WeaknessIf your feet aren’t used to bearing weight evenly, or if the muscles are used to moving in just one way, jumping (especially on your toes) may cause your arch to droop or drop. When this happens, you’ll likely feel pain. If a weak arch seems to be the cause of your foot pain while jumping, there are a few easy fixes. First, try jumping for shorter periods of time until your foot-muscle strength has built up. Also, make sure to rest and stretch out your feet between HIIT workouts so that the newly forming muscles can relax and rebound before taking another hit (get it?)

2. Lack of Support

Lots of popular workouts call for bare feet, but jumping around without shoes can be damaging. If you’re determined to go barefoot during a jumping workout, make sure to stand on a padded mat to protect your feet from the full impact of the hard ground. If you’re jumping on mats and your feet still hurt, it’s time to slip on shoes—and not just any shoes. The shoes you select for high intensity workouts should be sneakers equipped with proper arch support. And if you’re already wearing supportive sneakers and your feet still hurt when you jump around, you may need to be fitted for an orthotic. That extra layer of custom-fitted arch support should put an end to impact-related foot pain during jumps.

3. Chronic Heel Pain

In some cases, your feet hurt when you jump because of inflammation in the ligaments that run from your heel to the back of your foot. Known as plantar fasciitis, this condition usually causes sharp pains in your heels, not in your arches. If this is your problem, you can’t just switch up your workout surface or shoes and hope for the best. Plantar fasciitis is a chronic medical condition that can and will get worse without attention from your podiatrist.

The Safest Way to Jump

Once you’ve ruled out chronic conditions and set yourself up for pain free jumping, you can take further steps to ensure a safe and comfortable HIIT workout. Here’s some tips to perfect your jump-rope form and keep foot pain at bay:

Don’t put your weight all in one spot. Try to keep it evenly distributed between the outside of your foot and all five toes

Until you get comfortable, try mini jumps where you keep your big toe on the ground, letting your four smaller toes enjoy just a bit of air time

Post-Workout Foot Recovery

No matter how many precautions you take, jump-heavy workouts will take a certain toll on your feet. To prevent foot pain, make sure to try some of these recovery “cool-downs” after a workout.

Ball Rolling – Just like you foam roll your larger muscle groups to release knots and tensions, you can do the same for your feet. Sit on a chair, feet flat on the ground, and place a hard, mid-sized ball (like a lacrosse ball) beneath one foot. Press down against the ball, making sure you apply enough pressure to give the muscles a good stretch.

Grab a Towel– Hit the ground and put your feet straight out in front of you. Wrap a towel around your toes and pull it back toward your body until you feel a good stretch. Play around with the towel position until you get the right feel.

Be the Dog – Learning to love yoga is great for your feet. While standing, reach your hands to your toes until you touch the ground (or get as close as your flexibility allows.) From there, walk your hands out to a comfortable position, where your arms and legs are both straight. Lift your rear end up to form a body-shaped triangle. Now that you are in “downward dog” begin pedaling out your heels, getting as close as you can to the ground to get a good stretch.

Precautions are important with any workout, but they become even more crucial when you take on high-impact exercise. As always, if any of these measures still leave your feet hurting, stop your activity and check-in with your podiatrist to rule out an injury or chronic condition.

In many cases athlete's foot will resolve itself without any type of medical care. In fact, in 30-40% of cases this is what happens. However, topical antifungal medication does produce much higher rates of cure.

Typically treatment methods involve washing the feet once or twice a day, followed by the application of a topical medication. Since outer layers of skin are often damaged and are likely to become reinfected, it is reccomended that treatment continues for about 2-6 weeks after symptoms are no longer evident.

It is crucial once you have had athlete's foot to practice good hygiene in order to prevent reinfection. Keeping the feet dry can be really important when treating the feet isn't always enough. Wearing the same socks and shoes that have already been infested with fungi can reinfect the feet. To be effective, treatment should also include all infected areas so, that the infection doesn't continue to spread...especially to areas that have already been treated!

Skin infections that are more severe may require oral antifungal medication, such as Lamisil. However, most of the time it can be treated with topical antifungal sprays, powders, gels or creams. In most cases application of an antifungal cream such as terbinafine or butenafine once daily for two weeks is effective. Infection on the bottom, or plantar, side of the foot can be harder to treat because the skin is thicker in that area. Medications such as asurea, alicyclic acid and lactic acid can in these cases be used to improve how the antifungal medication penetrates the thickened skin.

]]>https://www.utahfootdoc.com/blog/treat-your-athletes-foot.cfmwww.utahfootdoc.com-150466Tue, 07 Jul 2015 16:37:00 ESTPeople often talk about how flat feet lead to foot problems, but what many don’t know is that high arches can actually cause more serious issues than flat feet. If someone has high arches, chances are they were born with them. However, sometimes this causes the foot to not bend as easily. This can make running and walking more difficult and sometimes even painful.

Calluses often form on the ball of the foot when a person has high arches. It can also lead to pain in the heel as the foot is unable to properly absorb and distribute forces while walking.

If you do feel like you are feeling pain caused by your high arches, be sure to not leave it untreated. Doing so will make it more likely for you to experience common problems like Achilles tendonitis, stress fractures, ankle instability and fallen arches.

So, there is no time to waste! Treating high arches does not mean having to go through surgery either. Customized orthotics is one of the best ways to treat pain caused by high arches. Orthotics will give you more stability when walking and in this way will reduce pain. Making sure that your shoes fit properly will also help to alleviate the pain.

And if custom orthotics are not something you want to do right now, then there are different options. Semi-custom orthotics are also available. By coming into our office you can receive a full gait analysis and Dr. Gibson will be able to fit you with semi-custom orthotics that match your foot type. That way you will be able to run and walk without pain in no time!

Your foot will often swell after surgery and sometimes this can cause the ace wrap put on by the hospital to become rather tight. Loosening the ace wrap on the outside can help decrease the pain and give you more breathing room. As you do this, be sure to leave the gauze that is on the wound in tact so that your blood is able to clot and start to heal.

2.What if it is bleeding more than normal?

If it is bleeding more than normal you can always add more gauze under the ace bandage. Never take the gauze on there off, because this will only reopen the wound in the places it has already clotted and will make it bleed more. So, add the gauze on top of what is already on there. Also be sure to give us a call when you do this so we can determine what the next course of action is.

3.Why does my foot have to stay dry until the stitches come out?

We ask that you keep your foot dry for two weeks after surgery or until the stitches come out. You can do this by putting a plastic bag over your foot in the shower. This will help us make sure that the area under the skin doesn’t become infected.

4.What if my pain medication is making me nauseous?

If this is occurring, be sure to give us a call. We will be able to let you know what your other options are. Most of time this sick feeling goes away after the patient is prescribed nausea medication. We may also have a completely different option for you entirely.

5.What if my foot is feeling numb after surgery?

The nerves in the foot after surgery can take up to a month to wake up. When they do wake up the patient may experience shooting pains.

6.What if I can’t ice the area directly?

If you are unable to ice the area directly, because of the wrapping, putting ice directly under the knee of the same leg will also help. The easiest way to do this is to use a frozen water bottle.

7.How long will I be in the boot after surgery?

Bone takes 6-8 weeks to heal, but most patients are able to take the boot off at four. An x-ray will be taken at a follow-up appointment after surgery before the patient is cleared to do so.

8.What if I am having trouble getting around?

We recommend that patients are moving as quickly as possible after surgery. Doing so helps them get their regular range of motion back more quickly. However, if you are having problems getting around a prescription for a knee scooter can be sent in.

*Be sure to call us with any other questions you may have 801-756-0765. We have a 24 hour line so; you will be able to get a hold of the doctor night or day. Just be sure to leave a message and Dr. Gibson will get back to you as soon as possible.

A new baby always brings excitement into a home, along with a great amount of joy, less sleep and new stresses. This is definitely something that Dr. Gibson understands, being the father of 11 children. He understands they bring into the home and also the added responsibility and worry.

When a new baby is born, often the first question a new mother asks is, “Are there 10 fingers and toes?" To alleviate this worry, Dr. Gibson has created a list of the 5 things to check on a newborn's feet.

1. Most Babies Are Flat Footed. Approximately 97% of newborn feet are visually flat. This is due to the fat pad in the arch area from birth. Over time, this fat resorbs and the muscles and tendons produce the development of an arch. A flat footed baby should not be a concern. Just enjoy those cute, fat feet.

2. Flexible Feet. A newborn foot is and should be very flexible as bones are only partially developed and muscle, tendons and ligaments are still developing. A foot that is poorly positioned on the leg (tilted out or tilted in), not flexible (tight against the front of the leg) or even contorted (clubfoot) is a warning sign and should be evaluated by a foot and ankle specialist. Remember, thought, that sine the feet are soft and flexible, shoes should be purchased with the same features for a newborn foot (or even better allow them to be barefoot).

3. Baby Shape. The newborn foot shape is characteristically triangular in shape, consisting of a narrow heel and wide forefoot. The foot should be easily held between the thumb and forefinger in a "V" shape. This evaluation allows for evaluation of a foot that is "C" shaped, as the toes and forefoot area tilt in or out, instead of remaining straight. Due to the flexible nature of the infant foot, any abnormalities in shape may be modified by stretching and splinting if caught early.

4. Reflexes. In an infant, the common reflex tested is the Babinski sign. This is elicited by running a blunt instrument or finger from the bottom outside of the heel in a curve towards the big toe. The adult response is curving of toes down and turning the foot outward. In an infant, the response is spreading of the toes and elevation of the great toe. No response would be the only concerning finding at this time.

5. 10 Toes. This is commonly the first thing evaluated on the feet. Abnormalities may include toes that are abnormally large compared to other toes, too many toes, too few toes, or even absence of toes. Webbing of the toes may also be seen at this time. Treatment for many of these conditions is possible but may not always be necessary. Evaluation should be done through a specialized foot and ankle physician.

The foot is a very complex arrangement of bones, tendons, ligaments and vascular/nervous tissues. It will carry the new infant throughout life and should be protected. A key to the development of each foot is the ability to develop unimpeded by constricting clothes or shoes, as the foot with move quite regularly as muscle and tendons mature. Enjoy your babies feet, as they are part of the cuteness that is your baby.

]]>https://www.utahfootdoc.com/blog/10-fingers-and-toes-making-sure-your-newborns-feet-are-healthy.cfmwww.utahfootdoc.com-147802Thu, 30 Apr 2015 15:15:00 ESTAs summer finally gets into full swing, more and more people are seen wearing flip flops as they walk around neighborhoods, go shopping in stores, even attend amusement parks. Flip flops are purchased to match that dress, or to attend your local business, or even church meetings. People swear by the comfort (and freedom) of a flip flop, but should these simple sandals be utilized as a shoe outside of pools or beaches?

Several years ago, Auburn University's biomechanics lab (Dr Wendi Weimar and doctoral student Justin Shroyer) ran a study on the biomechanical effects of a flip flop. This study included 39 male and female college-age volunteers that were measured in flip flops vs. regular athletic shoes utilizing biomechanical evaluation equipment including digital filming and pressure mats. Differences in pressure, movements of the hips, legs, knees, ankles, feet and toes were evaluated also. Their findings were significant and consisted of modified gait patterns. Listed below are injuries that can occur due the poor mechanics of a flip flop:

- Overuse injuries such as stress fractures or joint strains can occur more easily. Flip flop wearers were found in the study to take shorter steps. This increases pressure across the foot and can produce the typical "march" fracture. This could also occur due to the "shuffling" gait that occurs because scrunching of the toes caused "turning off the muscles that would bring the toes up." per Dr Weimar.

- Ankle sprains occur more commonly due to increased flattening of the foot due to poor support or even lack of midfoot support, leading to pronation or supination off the flip flop.

- Joint injury or Hammer toes. Commonly flip flop wearers were found to scrunch the toes to help keep the sandal on. This curving or scrunching of the toes can lead to accommodation of feet including curling of toes (hammer toes) or even injury to the toes or the toe joints.

- Heel Pain or Plantar Fasciitis. Due to the lack of support and a commonly tight Achilles tendon (heel cord), the most common flip flop related pain is heel pain or arch pain that hurts first step in the morning and progresses throughout the day.

- Toe Injury (Contusions, Bruising, Stubbing). Shoes should typically have protection for the toes. In a flip flop, no protection is provided from kicking a door frame, a rock or even a curb. Things that are dropped will fall on the foot (unprotected) and can cause injury.

- Sunburn. A foot that has commonly been in a shoe during the winter can easily be burned in the hot summer sun when completely unprotected.

- Fractures. Recently a patient broke her foot by running in flip flops and catching the flip flop on the curb. This created significant fractures to the foot both because of the biomechanics of how she was running and the unstable shoe that caught.

Injuries of other types can also occur. In fact, biomechanically (as shown in multiple studies) the flip flop should be limited to jaunts to the pool or beach. Can they be utilized at other times? Yes, but only in moderation. Find a good looking sandal with more protection and support for your foot or even better, where a good supportive athletic shoe when doing the mall trips, long walks or amusement park visits. Your feet will thank you and you will have less time spent recovering from an injury that didn't need to occur.]]>https://www.utahfootdoc.com/blog/flip-flops-not-just-for-the-beach-anymore-.cfmwww.utahfootdoc.com-147195Wed, 15 Apr 2015 18:10:00 ESTCamping is awesome, but can present some challenges. Here are some tips to make sure your feet are safe and comfortable on your next camping trip. Follow these instructions for best results!

1) Wear proper shoes.

When camping, it's important to consider the terrain as well as the activities planned for the trip. Will you be hiking? Fishing? Know your schedule and plan accordingly. Never venture from the campsite without sturdy shoes.

2) Bring flip flops.

It's much safer to wear flip flops than to go barefoot even the short distances between tents around camp. Bring flip flops for short distances to avoid having to put on lace up shoes and socks and avoid the temptation to go barefoot.

3) Wear sunscreen and bug repellent when your feet are exposed.

This is often a neglected area. Remember to wear sunscreen and spray bug repellent on all exposed areas.

4) Bring a first aid kit.

Make sure to include items to remove slivers, bandage blisters, and fix broken nails.

]]>https://www.utahfootdoc.com/blog/foot-care-when-camping.cfmwww.utahfootdoc.com-146871Mon, 06 Apr 2015 18:34:00 ESTMy greatest blessings and greatest joy in life come from my family. When I have a bad day, a hug from a 6 year-old when I walk in the door or a 15 year-old waiting to talk to me makes everything better. I love seeing them learn and grow and get great joy with their successes and often hurt when they hurt. But as a father and a podiatrist, I notice their feet, I notice a limp, and I notice how they walk. Many parents also notice these problems in their own children. I therefore want to explain important things to consider when evaluating your children:

Pain is never normal. I commonly hear people talk about “growing pains” and consider them normal. Growing should not be painful! Pain will always have a cause and can usually be treated without difficulty. If your child is complaining of foot, ankle, leg, knee or even back pain, their feet and walking pattern may be the cause. Don’t let them continue to suffer, but see a specialist that is experienced in evaluating foot and ankle complaints in children.

Flat Feet can be normal, but only when very young. In children 1-4 years-old, the foot has a flat appearance and often has no arch. This is due to a special fat pad located in the arch area of the foot that produces the cute baby feet. As they grow, this fat resorbs and starts to develop into a more normal arch appearance. As they get older, therefore, the foot shouldn’t remain flat. Many pediatricians will tell you that you can outgrow a flat foot, but not all forms of flat feet will be outgrown. Evaluation of your child, even at a very young age, can help prevent future problems.​

Your foot problems can be passed to your children. Most of us notice recognizable traits passed to your children from us. The hope is that we only pass the best traits, but sometimes even our “bad” traits make it through the genetic line. Do you have foot, leg or back pain? Do you like how your feet look? What kind of arch do you have? Do you have conditions that may require surgery or medical treatments?

You have passed your feet to at least a child or two. Although they already have their feet and the traits thereof, through careful, experienced evaluation and treatment, problems can be prevented and the foot can be strengthened to limit future problems. If you could prevent your problems as a child, wouldn’t this be a good idea?

Every family member can benefit from a foot evaluation, especially if you have foot problems. Through evaluation, walking patterns can be determined, injuries can be reduced, and future surgeries or difficulties can be prevented. By evaluating a family together, it is also very beneficial to compare the adult foot to the child foot, because genetics are a key piece of any future difficulties.

So the real questions you should be asking each and every day is “Who’d you give your feet to?” Is that a good thing or should you seek help in preventing future problems

]]>https://www.utahfootdoc.com/blog/should-you-be-worried-about-how-your-child-walks-.cfmwww.utahfootdoc.com-146867Mon, 06 Apr 2015 17:13:00 ESTPeople are constantly looking for ways to improve their daily diet and find the foods that are going to be the best for them. That is probably superfoods have become such a huge topic. Superfoods are foods that have high health benefits and are low in calories. However, which superfoods will also mesh well with your diabetic meal plan?

The American Diabetes Association recently released a list of what these foods are and how to best take advantage of the health benefits. Managing your diabetes will help prevent ulcers and numbness of your feet in the future. So, here is the list:

1. Beans-Having 1 cup of legumes will result in better blood sugar control and lower blood pressure.

2. Spinach-It is low on calories and carbohydrates. You can never eat too much!

3. Grapefruit, oranges, lemons & limes-The soluble fiber content can help delay the rise of blood sugar. Can interact with some medications however.